Access to finance for SMEs

Access to finance for SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent over 99% of businesses in the EU so it is crucial to support their growth and innovation. However, one of the most important issues facing SMEs is their difficulty accessing finance. The European Commission works to improve the financing environment for small businesses in Europe.

What the Commission does

The Commission works with financial institutions to improve the funding available to SMEs by stimulating the provision of loans and venture capital through financial instruments.

The Commission also helps EU countries share good policy on improving access to finance which allows them to benefit from the experience of others.

Practical information for SMEs looking for financing

EU financing programmes are generally not provided as direct funding. Aid is channelled through local, regional, or national authorities, or through financial intermediaries such as banks and venture capital organisations that provide funding through financial instruments.